What does 2 Chronicles 10:7 teach about servant leadership and humility? Setting the Scene Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, has just ascended to the throne. Israel’s elders ask him to lighten the heavy yoke Solomon placed on the people. Before answering, Rehoboam seeks counsel—first from the older advisors, then from the younger. The older counselors deliver a principle that remains timeless. Key Verse (2 Chronicles 10:7) “They replied, ‘If you will be kind to this people and please them and speak good words to them, they will be your servants forever.’” Servant Leadership Highlighted • Kindness before command: Authority is earned by demonstrating genuine care. • Pleasing the people means seeking their welfare, not pandering to whims. • “Speak good words” stresses thoughtful, respectful communication. • Result: Loyal, willing service—“they will be your servants forever.” Leadership grounded in service secures enduring influence. Humility at the Heart of Authority • The elders urge Rehoboam to lower himself, not exalt himself. True greatness is measured by how well a leader stoops to lift others (cf. Matthew 20:26-28: “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant”). • Humility listens first; pride dictates first. Rehoboam’s later choice to ignore humble counsel fractures the kingdom. • Speech reveals heart posture. “Good words” flow from a humble spirit (Proverbs 15:1). Lessons for Today’s Leaders • Lead by serving: Invest in others’ good before seeking your own gain. • Use authority to relieve burdens, not add them (cf. Galatians 6:2). • Commit to respectful dialogue; harsh edicts breed rebellion. • Humility is not weakness; it is strategic strength that earns lasting loyalty. Related Scriptures That Echo the Principle • John 13:14-15 – Jesus washing feet: “I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” • Philippians 2:3-4 – “In humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • 1 Peter 5:2-3 – Shepherds are to serve “not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples.” |
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